St. LauRUNtius: PA Senator Larry Farnese Kicks Off 5th Annual 5K Race in Fishtown

On Saturday, April 23rd, residents of Fishtown gathered at Holy Name of Jesus church dressed in brightly colored shirts and running shoes. Despite the steady drizzle of rain pouring from the sky, everyone was ready to race.

Runners were geared up for the fifth annual St. LauRUNtius 5K. While the race has been a staple of the community for the past five years, this was the first rainy race in the event’s history. This neighborhood run through the streets of Fishtown was sponsored by PA Senator Larry Farnese, State Rep Mike O’Brien, and Councilmen Mark Squilla and Darrell Clarke. All proceeds of the 5K directly benefited St. Laurentius School.

“It’s been a fun event, it’s gets people active,” AJ Thomson, one of the event organizers, said. “We’ve actually started a running club at the school and have about 25 kids in that who have been practicing.”

Sen. Farnese was on hand for the race, acting as the official starter of the race.

“A couple weeks ago, Maggie O’Brien asked if I’d be willing to sponsor this 5K,” Farnese said. “It’s all about helping the younger kids at this school, and it’s a great school. Where enrollment at a lot of schools across Philadelphia, especially Catholic schools, is decreasing, St. Laurentius is seeing an increase. That’s a testament to the parents and the teachers that care so deeply about the kids. I wanted to be a part of it and I wanted to sponsor it.”

“We run our school on a very tight budget, with our money coming from tuition and sponsorships,” Thomson said. “We’ve been able to stay of 126 years and hopefully 126 more.”

Sen. Farnese was the honorary sponsor, which means he didn’t have to run in the rain for the event. Even so, runners of ages and skill levels lapped around the neighborhood. As they crossed the finish line, each was greeted with cheers and a block party, where all competitors and organizers celebrated following the run.